We use cookies to display personalized content, analyze site traffic, provide recommendations, and ensure you have a great browsing experience. By continuing to use our site, you consent to our use of cookies. Privacy Policy.
Florida Cannabis License Solutions
The Cannabis License Experts experienced team will show you how to get your dispensary license in Florida faster and with an unmatched success rate. Having to repeat your Florida (FL) Marijuana License application process will set your business back by months and significantly impact your earnings potential. Let us show you how we’ll help you on your path to a Cannabis License in Florida and much more by booking your free consultation today.
15+
Years of Experience
1200+
Clients Served
5 Star
Google Reviews
130,000+
Services Completed
Florida Cannabis License Update 8/1/22
Due to litigation from Florida’s 2017 licensing application process, additional MMTC licenses for Florida’s medical cannabis program have been on hold. Earlier this year, applicants that were part of this process and stalled were able to apply for what the state is calling “Pigford” licenses. While it is expected that these licenses will be granted within the next few weeks, Florida also has plans to license additional MMTC’s by the end of this year or the beginning of 2023. While the exact timeline for the application process is yet to be determined, due to the competition level for this license type interested parties should start preparing now. The MMTC license is one of the most valuable license types available within the legalized U.S. state markets. It allows for fully vertical operations and multiple facilities of each facility type. It is anticipated that 22 new MMTC licenses will be issued through this application process.
Market Overview
The Sunshine State, which legalized medical marijuana in 2016, is the third-largest cannabis market in the country by annual sales, behind only California and Colorado, which generated nearly $4 billion and $2 billion in annual sales last year, respectively. Currently Florida holds the largest market in the country in terms of sales specific to medical marijuana programs. And the largest U.S. cannabis companies are duking it out and going after the market leader, Trulieve, which controls about 50% of the market. With a limited medical-only market and few Florida Marijuana licensees, Florida also presents one of the most promising, largest US markets on the East Coast. In 2016, a second attempt was made to pass a constitutional amendment to legalize medical cannabis in Florida. And according to Arcview Market Research the Florida medical marijuana industry is projected to surpass $1.1 billion in annual sales by 2022. The estimate will be substantially higher if the state legalizes recreational marijuana. Currently two initiatives have been introduced in 2022 for recreational legalization, SB1696 and SB1884.
The Florida Department of Agriculture, Consumer Services and the Florida Department of Health, and Florida Board of Medicine oversee the medical program in the state.
Book a free consultation today to learn more about how Cannabis License Experts can assist you and your team on your path to a Cannabis License in Florida (FL), a Florida Cultivation License and much more.
The Florida Department of Agriculture, Consumer Services and the Florida Department of Health, and Florida Board of Medicine oversee the medical program in the state.
Book a free consultation today to learn more about how Cannabis License Experts can assist you and your team on your path to a Cannabis License in Florida (FL), a Florida Cultivation License and much more.
FL Marijuana License Requirements, Timelines, and Selection Processes
Florida only issues one type of Florida marijuana license for business: medical marijuana treatment centers (MMTC). MMTCs grow, process, sell, and even deliver cannabis to patients. The Florida Marijuana License application period for dispensing organization approval ended July 8, 2015. The department is not accepting applications at this time. Although Florida currently has 22 licensed medical cannabis operators, three companies control more than two-thirds of the market, and the top six account for nearly 90% of all sales. Of the six market leaders are all owned by multistate operators, half through acquisitions in recent years.
The state's cannabis regulations as written by the Florida legislature, require medical marijuana dispensaries to cultivate, process and transport their products. This essentially creates a vertical integration requirement which Lawmakers in Tallahassee have since introduced two bills intended to end. Third party grader from KPMG were hired to ensure impartial and standardized methods to determine the best suited candidates while also allowing a high degree of transparency. All score sheets are available on the State licensing website. The medical marijuana treatment center (MMTC) edibles food permit is for medical marijuana edibles produced at a medical marijuana treatment center licensed by the Florida Department of Health. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Florida Department of Health are currently working on rules for medical marijuana edibles. As soon as the rules are in place, medical marijuana edibles will be available.
The state's cannabis regulations as written by the Florida legislature, require medical marijuana dispensaries to cultivate, process and transport their products. This essentially creates a vertical integration requirement which Lawmakers in Tallahassee have since introduced two bills intended to end. Third party grader from KPMG were hired to ensure impartial and standardized methods to determine the best suited candidates while also allowing a high degree of transparency. All score sheets are available on the State licensing website. The medical marijuana treatment center (MMTC) edibles food permit is for medical marijuana edibles produced at a medical marijuana treatment center licensed by the Florida Department of Health. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Florida Department of Health are currently working on rules for medical marijuana edibles. As soon as the rules are in place, medical marijuana edibles will be available.
This Florida (FL) Marijuana License Application is divided into four parts:
- Part I requires the Applicant to provide basic information about the Applicant and Application.
- Part II requires the Applicant to document its compliance with requirements mandated by the Statute.
- Part III requires the Applicant to provide the OCU with all items listed in the Rule. Part III is organized differently than the Rule because it is organized based on the scoring system OCU will use to evaluate Applications. Each individual item listed in the Rule and the Application is not mandatory but is designed to elicit information from the Applicant that will assist the OCU in making its selection.
- Part IV explains how to submit an application, including the application fee.
Issuance of License/Review
Hear from Our Successful Clients
Some of the World’s Largest Brands have Trusted CLE to Support their Cannabis Journey.
5 Star Google Reviews
What are Florida’s Cannabis and Hemp Regulations?
In Florida, cannabis is not legal for recreational use, but medicinal marijuana has been legalized. Additionally, industrial hemp cultivation is allowed with certain regulations in place. Familiarizing yourself with these laws will help you comply with all regulations when applying for your license.
What are the Qualification Requirements for Obtaining a cannabis license in Florida?
In order to get a Florida cannabis license, you’ll need to meet a few basic eligibility requirements. The applicant must be 21 years of age or older, a state resident for the last six months, and able to pass a background check. Additionally, the applicant must provide all relevant business documentation and pay any applicable application fees. It’s also important that the business has adequate liability insurance before being approved for a license. Before applying for a cannabis license in Florida, it’s important to have a comprehensive plan for how the business will operate and be structured. This includes clearly defined roles and responsibilities within the organization, operations plans that detail how day-to-day activities will be managed, and robust procedures that ensure compliance with state and local regulations. Furthermore, applicants should outline their strategy for developing customers, ensuring quality control of products and services, and projecting financial growth.
Contact and Gain Approval from Local Governments
Once you’ve completed the necessary paperwork and gathered your supporting documents, it’s important to contact local governments to gain approval for your business. Depending on the area in which you plan to operate, this could include registering with a municipality or county commission. Additionally, applicants are required to submit a signed agreement with each local governing body and obtain a certificate of acceptance before submitting their license application.
Submit the Proper Paperwork to Apply for a cannabis license in Florida
Before you can apply for a Cannabis License in Florida, you’ll need to complete and submit the proper paperwork. This will usually include an application form detailing personal information, professional experience, financial records, evidence of residency, and other relevant data. Moreover, many vendors are required to provide proof of their legal right to do business in the state. Once all the correct documents have been submitted and accepted by regulators, businesses can begin the official licensing process.
Cannabis License in Florida Financial Requirements
General requirements for FL marijuana license applications include bank statements, CPA letters, Letter of Credit, or similar documentation. Additionally, a 2-3 year Pro Forma is also submitted as a component of the formal Business Plan. In 2021, the expected cost of opening a Florida marijuana licensed dispensary in Florida stands somewhere between $250,000 and $750,000. The Florida marijuana licensing fee for medical marijuana dispensaries in Florida is $60,830 – much higher than other states in the US. Under the current licensing system the barrier to entry is very high as the Florida marijuana license holder has to show the ability to open and operate the cultivation, processing, and dispensing of medical cannabis.
| Total # of Cannabis Licenses in Florida | 22 medical FL marijuana licenses |
|---|
| Basic Demographic Information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Resources include the US Census Bureau, City-Data.com, and any additional relevant resources. | ||
| Total # of Counties | 67 | |
| Total # of Cities/Towns | 282 cities, 109 towns, and 20 villages in the U.S. state of Florida, a total of 411 incorporated municipalities. | |
| Population in 2019 | 471,525 | |
Miami
40
Median Age
$45K
Medial Income
$400K
Median Home Price
$1290/Month
Fair Market Rent
Orlando
35
Median Age
$59K
Medical Income
$260K
Median Home Price
$1307M
Fair Market Rent
287,442
Country Population in 2019
Business Climate
Overall, the majority of the state has embraced the formal legalization of cannabis for medical use. Licensing is relatively limited with few openings for new operators at this time. Due to the fully vertical Florida (FL) Marijuana License requirement in Florida, while this program undoubtedly provides an abundance of opportunities most small businesses have been squeezed out.
Florida businesses have a tax advantage over small businesses in some other states and is home to several startup hubs that offer ready access to investors. The Sunshine State has a seasonal economy for many industries and is home to the fourth largest economy in the nation. Currently, the top five industries for small business in Florida are accommodation and food services; healthcare and social assistance; professional, scientific, and technical services; construction; and retail.
Florida businesses have a tax advantage over small businesses in some other states and is home to several startup hubs that offer ready access to investors. The Sunshine State has a seasonal economy for many industries and is home to the fourth largest economy in the nation. Currently, the top five industries for small business in Florida are accommodation and food services; healthcare and social assistance; professional, scientific, and technical services; construction; and retail.
Real Estate & Zoning
Consideration for regional and local zoning with regard to allowed proximity to certain business types, schools, and other prohibited areas. Distance Requirements are set by each local jurisdiction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many facility license types are there in Florida’s medical cannabis program?
Florida offers one cannabis license type which is the Medical Marijuana Treatment Center license. This license type requires that license holders engage in all supply chain activities including cultivation, processing, and dispensing of cannabis products to registered medical cannabis patients.
Why does it cost so much to start a cannabis company in Florida?
Florida only offers one license type and requires that all licensees engage in cultivation, processing and retail operations. The capital needed to start all 3 facilities was quite extensive, costing between $5 – $15 million. Until the state breaks up the license type to have single activity licenses, the barrier to entry will remain very high.
Are edibles allowed in Florida?
Yes, THC infused edibles are technically allowed through Florida’s medical marijuana program however the Florida Department of Health is yet to develop regulation around them. You cannot legally purchase edibles from a dispensary yet.
Who governs medical marijuana in Florida?
The Florida Department of Health governs the medical marijuana program in Florida overseeing licensing and regulating the industry.
How many cannabis licenses are currently in Florida?
Florida currently has 22 licensed medical marijuana facility operators. These 22 license holders operate the state’s 300+ dispensaries as well as all other facility types.
One-Stop Business Solutions Provider
When you partner with CLE, you are able to leverage our proven knowledge and best industry resources to provide you a complete Cannabis Business Solution.
- LICENSING
- REAL ESTATE SEARCH
- DESIGN & BUILD
- SECURITY
- DIGITAL MARKETING & DEVELOPMENT
- EQUIPMENT TENDERING
- INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY PROTECTION
- Banking & Insurance
- Merger & Acquisitions
- Private Label Manufacturing
- Micro-Grow Franchising
- Human Resources
Don't Know Where To Begin? Get Started Now
Applying for a Medical Cannabis License in Florida and unsure where to start?
Currently the Florida Marijuana License application period for licensing in Florida is closed. New Cannabis licensing opportunities in FLorida will come either through the expansion of the existing medical program or the legalization of adult-use cannabis within the state. Now is the time to get ahead of the process by defining your business. CLE can develop a preliminary business and feasibility plan to help give an understanding of business viability within the Florida cannabis market to give you a head start in this process.
In order to get started, reach out to one of our regulatory experts today to learn more about Cannabis Business Solutions.
